8 Best Waterproof Dry Bag Backpacks to Buy in 2025

The Pelican ExoDry 30L doesn’t just promise protection—it delivers like a fortress on rapids. Built with 500D PVC, this dry bag laughs in the face of sharp rocks, thorny trails, and crashing waves, making it a top-tier choice for rugged water sports. Its standout feature? A translucent main compartment that lets you spot your gear instantly—no more digging blindly after a long paddle. For kayakers and rafters who hate fumbling with soggy layers mid-adventure, this bag eliminates one of the most frustrating pain points: accessibility without compromise.

In real-world testing across rainy hikes and splash-heavy river runs, the roll-top compression seal held firm every time. The 30L capacity fits a weekend’s worth of clothes, a dry layer, snacks, and safety gear without bulging. While not designed for full submersion, it shrugged off wave spray and accidental dunks near shore. The padded, breathable shoulder straps made long carries comfortable, though the lack of a waist strap meant it bounced slightly on steep terrain. It excels on flatwater trips but starts to show limits during fast-paced trail transitions where load stability matters.

Compared to the Outlander and Pimoys models, the ExoDry trades packability for superior durability and visibility—you won’t find another bag in this range with a see-through body. It’s ideal for adventurers who prioritize gear security and quick access over ultralight packing. While heavier than some, its build quality and thoughtful design make it a smarter long-term investment than flimsier competitors—even if others cost less upfront.

Meet the Outlander Lightweight Waterproof Backpack—a stealth MVP for travelers who hate bulk but love preparedness. This 0.42-pound marvel disappears into its own zippered pocket when not in use, then unfolds into a 25L powerhouse ready to handle downpours, ferry rides, or sudden city storms. Its abrasion-resistant nylon fabric and sealed seams deliver true 100% waterproofing, while the dual-way SBS metal zipper on the front adds rugged reliability. For digital nomads or hikers needing a compact, always-ready dry solution, this bag is pure peace of mind in a pocket-sized package.

On real trails and transit hubs, the Outlander proved its mettle. It handled heavy rain during a coastal hike with zero moisture inside, thanks to the roll-top closure and taped seams. The multiple compartments—including a hidden security pocket—make organizing easy, and the side pockets fit water bottles snugly. However, the thin material, while impressively light, feels less tough against sharp gear or prolonged abrasion. It’s perfect for day trips or emergency use but not ideal for multi-day expeditions where gear weight and terrain stress matter.

When stacked against the Pelican ExoDry, the Outlander wins on portability and packability, but loses on long-term durability and load comfort. It’s the go-to for frequent flyers dodging baggage fees or backpackers needing a secondary dry sack. For those who value featherweight design and instant readiness over heavy-duty resilience, this is the ultimate stealth companion—offering maximum function in minimal form.

Don’t let the price fool you—the Pimoys 25L Dry Bag punches way above its weight in the budget waterproof backpack arena. For under $25, you get 500D PVC mesh construction, adjustable ergonomic straps, and a reflective safety strip—features usually reserved for pricier models. Its roll-top + buckle seal is simple and effective, keeping contents bone-dry during kayak outings and sudden thunderstorms. For weekend warriors and first-time paddlers who need affordable protection without cutting corners, this bag is a revelation.

In field use, the Pimoys handled moderate rapids and rain showers with confidence. The 25L capacity fits a sleeping bag, clothes, and food for a two-day trip, and the side mesh pockets add quick access for sunscreen or snacks. The detachable shoulder strap offers carrying flexibility, though the padding is thinner than premium models, leading to mild shoulder fatigue on long hauls. It floats briefly but isn’t designed for deep-water recovery—so keep it secured. Still, for the cost, it delivers solid performance across hiking, kayaking, and beach camping.

Compared to the STOVER and HEETA, the Pimoys lacks extra features like phone cases or waist belts, but it nails the essentials at half the price. It’s not as plush or high-capacity, but for beginners or occasional users, it’s the smart entry point. If you’re after no-fuss waterproofing on a tight budget, this bag offers exceptional value without sacrificing core durability.

The STOVER Waterproof Dry Backpack isn’t just a bag—it’s a full adventure kit, and the included IP58-certified phone case is its secret weapon. This floating dry bag uses high-frequency seam bonding to guarantee 100% waterproofing, making it a top pick for phone-toting paddlers and content creators. Whether you’re filming a river run or navigating a stormy trail, the touchscreen-friendly case fits phones up to 6.5 inches and stays sealed tight. For anyone who needs both gear protection and on-the-go connectivity, this bundle is unmatched.

Real-world testing showed the roll-top closure was intuitive and leak-free, even after being tossed in whitewater. The medium 25L–30L sizes balanced capacity and comfort, with padded straps and a molded carry handle for versatile carry options. The front mesh wet/dry pocket is a game-changer—store a soaked rain jacket up front while keeping dry layers safe inside. However, the floating ability, while reassuring, doesn’t mean retrieval is guaranteed in fast currents—always tether it.

Against the Earth Pak and Hualonger, the STOVER stands out with its premium phone case inclusion and superior organization. It’s not the lightest or the cheapest, but for adventurers who document their journeys, the integrated tech protection makes it worth the slight weight trade-off. If you want a dry bag that doubles as a mobile command center, this delivers smart design and real-world readiness in one floating package.

When you need serious volume without sacrificing dryness, the HEETA 40L Dry Backpack rises to the challenge. This heavy-duty PVC beast dominates the large-capacity category, offering enough space for a full camping load, camera gear, or even a change of clothes for two. The reinforced stress points and tear-resistant seams ensure it won’t fail under weight, while the roll-top closure with D-rings makes it easy to secure on boats or bikes. For serious outdoor enthusiasts needing a single, spacious dry hauler, this bag is a game-changer.

On extended trips, the 40L main compartment swallowed sleeping bags, tents, and food with room to spare. The front zip pocket kept phones and keys accessible, and the padded back panel with waist strap distributed weight evenly—critical for long hikes. During a rainy kayaking trip, it stayed completely dry, though the lack of a floating design meant extra caution near deep water. It’s not for ultralight backpackers, but for those who carry heavy loads in wet environments, it’s a dream.

Compared to the Pelican and STOVER, the HEETA offers more storage than both, but lacks the see-through body or phone case. It’s heavier than mid-size options, but that’s the trade-off for massive capacity and load stability. If you’re carrying gear for multiple people or extended expeditions, this bag delivers unmatched utility and comfort in a rugged, waterproof shell.

The Piscifun Floating Dry Backpack redefines organization with its innovative dry/wet compartment design—a rare gem in the waterproof bag world. The front zippered wet pocket lets you stash damp towels, swimsuits, or rain-soaked gloves without contaminating your dry clothes inside. Made from 500D nylon, it’s both lightweight and durable, and the IPX8 phone case and bonus dry pouch add serious value. For swimmers, kayakers, and beach campers, this bag solves the age-old problem of mixing wet and dry gear.

In use, the roll-top seal held firm through multiple dunks and downpours. The 20L size is ideal for day trips, and the floating design gave peace of mind during a capsizing drill. The breathable shoulder straps kept comfort high, though the pack lacks a waist belt for heavy loads. The extra portable backpack included is a nice touch—use it as a laundry sack or standalone daypack. It’s not the largest, but its smart layout sets it apart.

Versus the Hualonger and STOVER, the Piscifun wins on compartmentalization and included accessories. It doesn’t have the largest capacity, but for users who prioritize organization and versatility, it’s the clear winner. If you hate soggy socks in your sleeping bag, this bag offers brilliant separation and real-world practicality in a floating, waterproof form.

The Hualonger Waterproof Backpack earns its title as the best floating design with confidence. Its triple-layer roll-top closure and air-tight PVC construction ensure it stays afloat and dry—even after full submersion. In river tests, it bobbed back up like a cork, making retrieval easy after an accidental drop. The reflective strips and side hooks add safety and utility, while the smooth, easy-clean surface wipes down in seconds. For kayakers, rafters, and paddleboarders, this bag is a lifesaver in more ways than one.

Available in 20L to 40L, the 30L model struck the best balance between size and portability. The front zip pocket held snacks and keys within reach, and the lightweight build reduced fatigue on long carries. While the shoulder straps are padded, they lack a sternum or waist clip, so it can shift during vigorous movement. Still, for water-centric adventures where loss prevention is critical, the floating ability outweighs minor fit compromises.

Compared to the Earth Pak, the Hualonger floats better and comes in vibrant, stylish colors, but lacks the 5-year warranty. It’s not the most rugged on land, but in water, it’s unbeatable for peace of mind. If you spend more time on water than trail, this bag offers superior buoyancy and visibility in a lightweight, fun-to-use design.

Backed by Wirecutter’s 2024 top pick badge and a 5-year warranty, the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is the gold standard for long-term reliability. This isn’t just a bag—it’s a tested, trusted companion for adventurers who hate replacing gear. The roll-top design works flawlessly, and the IPX8-certified phone case with dual-sided clear windows lets you take photos without opening it. For budget-conscious buyers who want elite durability, this bag delivers premium protection without the premium price.

In testing, the 30L and 40L models handled heavy loads with ease, and the sternum strap on larger sizes improved stability on steep trails. The lightweight, packable design makes it easy to stash in luggage, and the simple snap-lock phone case is intuitive and secure. While it doesn’t float like the Hualonger, its warranty alone sets it apart—few competitors offer this level of confidence.

Against the STOVER and Piscifun, Earth Pak trades flashy extras for unmatched longevity and brand trust. It doesn’t have the most compartments or brightest colors, but for those who value peace of mind over bells and whistles, it’s the smartest long-term investment—proving that sometimes, the best feature is a promise that lasts.